(1) To serve as a national clearinghouse for information to the public in respect to discrimination or denials of equal protection of the Laws because of race, color, religion, sex, age, disability or national origin; to hold public hearings and collect and study information on discrimination or denials of equal protection; (2) To receive and refer complaints alleging denial of civil rights because of the aforementioned factors; to receive, investigate, and refer complaints alleging denial of voting rights.

Types of Assistance

Dissemination of Technical Information.

Uses and Use Restrictions

(1) The Commission on Civil Rights (CCR) conducts research and uses publications, liaison with private and public groups, the media, and a variety of other techniques to provide civil rights information to the above groups and to those who have responsibilities to comply with Federal civil rights laws and policies, those who implement these laws and policies, and the general public; and (2) the CCR receives and refers complaints alleging denial of equal protection of the laws to the appropriate Federal agencies.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicant Eligibility

Anyone can seek information; no criteria must be satisfied.

Beneficiary Eligibility

General public.

Credentials/Documentation

Complaint should contain a clear statement of the facts on which it is based.

In fiscal year 2001, the Commission processed approximately 6,000 complaints and completed 8 publications. In both fiscal years 2002 and 2003, the Commission estimates the processing of approximately 10,000 complaints, and completion of 12 publications.

Regulations, Guidelines and Literature

Catalog of Publications of Commission on Civil Rights, no charge. Commission on Civil Rights Brochure, no charge. All publications of the Commission are available from the Publications Office, Commission on Civil Rights, Washington, DC 20425.